If you or someone in your life is 55 or older, now is the perfect time to attend a first-of-its-kind event honoring seniors. Let’s Make It Happen Together, Inc., Mayor Pro Tem Derrick Thompson (District 6) and the Bill Crisp Senior Center are collaborating to hold their first National Seniors Day Conference and Recognition Luncheon on Friday, Aug. 21.
This date is recognized as National Senior Citizens Day, and its observance was established in 1988 with presidential Proclamation 5847. It’s a moment to acknowledge the achievements, societal contributions and wisdom of older adults and their influence on the generations that come after them.
The senior center at 7560 Raeford Road is the perfect venue to hold such an event, as it’s named after the late Fayetteville council member Bill Crisp, who served District 6.
“Bill Crisp has always been an advocate, not just for seniors but all of Fayetteville,” said Thompson. “As a long-time standing member of the city council, he was the figure for the southwest part of the city. It was an honor for them to be able to name the senior center after him while he was still alive because he had such an impact on seniors in this district.
“I thought it would be a good tribute to try to remember him in doing this event here at his center,” Thompson continued. The event itself is dedicated to Crisp’s memory and his accomplishments in providing opportunities for older adults to remain engaged with their community.
In a more widespread sense, the luncheon also pays homage to seniors across the city who serve as the community backbone.
“They’re the golden people of this city,” said Belinda Jackson, recreation center supervisor for the Bill Crisp Senior Center. “They hold all the history for the city, and out of respect to them, we want to honor them because they can teach us a whole lot. They have taught me a whole lot since I’ve been here.”
Doors open at 9:30 a.m., and the event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The National Seniors Day Conference and Recognition Luncheon will begin with opening remarks from Crisp’s family, and a small display will be put up outside of the venue in remembrance of him. As this is a “revolving” event, the ceremony will occur outdoors beneath a tent, while vendors will be inside the center so seniors can move freely throughout the venue.
Lunch will be provided, with a menu including fried fish and barbecue chicken, and guests can enjoy good eats from various vendors throughout the day. Photo booths, aerobics from the local business Tacorobics, DJ-provided music, dancing and vendor giveaways showcase the breadth of activities that attendees can indulge in.
Attendance is free; register for the luncheon by filling out the form at https://forms.gle/PqxzyTXmHRtYi4pm9.
Registrants can purchase from a range of à la carte options to elevate their experience, including:
• A digital download keepsake video of the day
• A 1/2 dozen strawberries or chocolate-dipped pineapples brought to your seat
• A rose brought to your seat
• A VIP priority reserved seat
• VIP priority reserved seating for eight guests
• A tribute message and photo in a souvenir book
• Event T-shirts
The digital download keepsake video will include high-quality, professional footage of the day, edited into a compilation. An overhead drone will be used to capture aerial shots and unforgettable moments.
Even if attendees don’t choose any à la carte options, they still have a chance to enter event raffles and walk away with great door prizes, which could include helpful services like lawn care.
Any small, medium-sized and large businesses looking to be a sponsor or vendor are highly encouraged to apply by calling 910-644-6059. Five sponsorship levels are available from $50 up to $5,000, with some benefits including VIP seating, a vendor table and social media recognition, depending on the level chosen. Sponsor participation goes directly toward serving the seniors with door prizes, recognition activities and meals.
Alongside the fun, there will be plenty of valuable resources, such as health screenings and wellness tips.
“This is basically going to be all the healthcare agencies, like people who deal with home care, Medicare, crematoriums,” Jackson said. “We’re going to make sure we have somebody in here for health screenings to do blood pressure checks and gait checks.”
Attendees will also hear an inspiring speech from guest speaker Dr. Keith D. Tillett, pastor of the Simon Temple AME Zion Church.
“I know he’s a great speaker. He already spoke about how important senior citizens are to our community, so I thought it would be paramount for him to carry on that message that he gave to the congregation,” Thompson said.
Aug. 21 marks a significant day for generations who’ve come before and paved the way forward, and this inaugural event will play a lasting role in acknowledging all they’ve done for America’s Can Do City.
“We want to value our seniors,” Jackson said. “We want to make sure that they get appreciated, and they get spoiled.”
Thompson added, “For me, it’s about making sure that our seniors know that they’re important to us. We appreciate you, we see you, and we want to recognize you.”
To RSVP for the event, fill out the Google form or call the Bill Crisp Senior Center at 910-433-1248. Vendor and sponsor opportunities are available at 910-644-6059.